The Epidemiology of Childhood Disorders

This book draws on the experience of an international group of paediatric epidemiologists, all of whom are world authorities in their field. In a consistent format they discuss biological considerations, patterns of occurrence, risk factors and the impact of interventions for each type of disorder. The disorders reviewed include not only the traditional morbidity of childhood such as infections, birth defects, asthma, and cerebral palsy, but also the new morbidity: emotional problems, intentional and non-intentional injuries, and suicide. This book will have wide appeal to health professionals at every level as it draws on personal experience combining paediatrics and epidemiology.

an excellent book on pediatric edidemiology for a wide readership, from novice to expert (New England Journal of Medicine)

an excellent repository of epidemiologic insights into a wide spectrum of childhood disorders ... The text opens with a superb review by Dr. Pless of general epidemiologic principles and methods. Virtually every chapter is authored by one of the two or three most knowledgeable authorities in the world, and a high and consistent standard is maintained throughout. The chapter on respiratory disorders is a gold-mine of information and sources ... a chapter entitled "Communicable Diseases" ... provides a masterful illustration of 20th century triumphs in primary prevention ... an excellent resource even for sophisticated students of the subject. As a compendium of up-to-date critical reviews of many topics in childhood epidemiology, The Epidemiology of Childhood Disorders has no equal. It will prove useful for pediatricians and epidemiologists alike. (Nigel Paneth, Michigan State University, Epidemiology Monitor, June 1994, Vol. 15. No. 6)

unique book ... The editor has assembled a grooup of international authors active in their fields and is to be congratulated for fostering a general continuity of style without redundancy. For those unfamiliar with methodology the first chapter offers a brief but comprehensive review of epidemiologic terms and concepts - an excellent guide ... consistently clear and concise ... provides a refreshing marriage of methodology and content that holds one's interest and keeps one searching for answers ... should be a standard reference for anyone involved in providing health care to children. It will be of particular interest to pediatricians, epidemiologists and health care professionals interested in childhood illness. (Joanne M. Langley, Izaak Walton Killam Children's Hospital, Canadian Medical Association Journal, September 1994)

With the help of 23 experts the editor has produced an excellent book on pediatric epidemiology for a wide readership. from novice to expert. The four chapters in the second section, on infectious disorders, are clearly written and informative. The last chapter, which deals with five common contagious diseases of childhood, is a gem: well organized, current, to the point, and listing suggested readings ... contains broad-based but not overly detailed information and provides ample references for future reading ... will not only be a timely addition to the libraries of readers interested in epidemiology but will also serve well as a general textbook for classes in maternal and child health. (Kwang-Sun Lee, University of Chicago, The New England Journal of Medicine, Sept 1994)

it is aimed at the interested paediatrician, but it will also provide a useful introduction to paediatric epidemiology to those new to the field ... The references listed at the end of each chapter are a valuable research tool on their own ... this is a worthwhile book for the reference shelf of anyone with an interest in paediatric epidemiology. Despite its many authors, each an expert in his/her own field, the book has a cohesiveness that encourages browsing as well as use as a reference tool. (Mary Jane Platt, International Journal of Epidemiology, Vol. 24, No. 4, 1995)

Ivan Pless has edited a valuable book which is likely to run to new editions ... The distinguished list of contributors is reflected in the general high quality of contributions, and there are ample reference lists. A young paediatric colleague read the book and returned it with comments including "easy to read" and "engenders enthusiasm". What better compliments could be paid? (D.J.P. Barker, The Lancet, Vol. 345, January 1995)

This ... is the first book which comprehensively covers nearly all aspects of paediatric epidemiology ... This book combines breadth and depth without going into excessive detail. Each chapter is followed by a comprehensive list of references, which I found extremely valuable. A high and consistent quality is maintained throughout the book. It is unique in that it summarises the present state of knowledge in paediatric epidemiology. I believe that many epidemiologists and paediatricians will find it very useful. (Finn Rasmussen, Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology, 10, 1996)